Top 5 Berkeley Dog Boarding and Cat Boarding FAQs

Please note: We are in temporary quarters through summer 2017 and unfortunately cannot offer boarding at this time. Stay tuned for information about our new facility!

If you are new to our Berkeley animal hospital or boarding your pet for the first time, you may have many questions about what to expect. Below, our Berkeley veterinarian answers five of your most frequently asked questions about dog boarding and cat boarding.

#1: Why should I board my pet?

Whether you are traveling for work or vacation, we know that it is never easy to leave a beloved family pet at home. Our veterinary clinic is a safe, responsible choice for pet boarding. Our trained kennel staff provides a secure 'home-away-from-home' for the special pets in your life. Boarding is much safer than leaving pets at home. Pets that are left home alone may become stressed and anxious at your sudden, unexplained absence. Pets may act out, damage furniture, accidentally ingest a poisonous substance, or even try to escape. Pet boarding at our animal hospital provides pet owners with valuable peace of mind. You won't have to worry about a health emergency or your pet's safety – it's all taken care of by our veterinary boarding team!

#2: My dog or cat is new to pet boarding; what should I expect?

If your pet is new to boarding, it's natural to wonder what to expect and if your pet will be comfortable while you are out of town. To help your pet better acclimate, we recommend a short overnight visit before boarding your pet for a long weekend or an extended period. This visit will allow your pet to familiarize themselves with our facilities and routine. Most importantly, your pet will be assured by your return and feel more comfortable with future boarding.

#3: What vaccinations will my pet need prior to boarding?

Prior to cat or dog boarding, your pet must be up to date on all core vaccinations. If you are boarding a dog, your dog must also be vaccinated against bordetella. All dogs and cats should have a current negative fecal sample on file and be on heartworm/flea prevention medication. If your pet is not up to date on vaccinations, our vet is happy to provide a booster shot prior to boarding.

#4: My pet eats a special diet; can you accommodate this?

Absolutely! Our kennel staff is happy to feed special food to your pet. We ask that you leave specific feeding directions with the food when you drop off your pet. A consistent, familiar diet will also help your pet feel more comfortable during dog or cat boarding.

#5: My pet is shy or nervous around other pets; will he be okay with cat or dog boarding?

Our veterinary team does everything possible to help pets relax and enjoy their dog or cat boarding experience. If your dog is uncomfortable around other dogs, we will provide him with individualized attention rather than group play. We have a separate, quiet area for cats so that they are not disturbed by the sights, smells and sounds of larger dogs.